Blessingway - Livin' the Good Life

Apr. 22nd, 2013

08:55 pm - Blessingway

We had a Blessingway for Christina a week ago Sunday. Instead of the usual group of close women friends who gather to symbolically prepare a maiden for motherhood, we had a small family celebration that included men... Ely and Nathen. (Steve and Damian were at a gig.) Christina's mother was there, and that was special because we don't see her nearly enough. Here is Christina with her mother, Tania, and her mother-in-law... me. The crown of flowers symbolizes fertility and fruitfulness. (Thanks for making it, Reanna!)

Later, the women of the family laid their hands on Christina's belly/baby to bless and welcome this new little family member, who we already love, and to show solidarity in our support of Christina's motherhood. These hands belong to Reanna, Tania, me, and Maya.Doesn't Christina look Radiant? Full of Life? Just lovely.

Comments:

I think this is a most wonderful tradition you have going on in your family. Did you start it? I've never heard of it before you. What strength and peace this must give Christina. Such a feeling of support!

I hope so. A Blessingway was originally an American Indian tradition, but I think us white folks have taken it and added our own twist to the ceremony. Every one I've been to has been different, and I've never seen one I didn't like. Sometimes a necklace is strung for the mother-to-be to wear during labor to help remember the strength of women who have gone before her. Sometimes there's soaking and washing of swollen feet in rose petal water. Sometimes a belly cast is made. Sometimes there's massage, combing of hair, and of course, the crown of flowers. Songs, poems, stories and advice are shared. Usually a meal is involved. Often there are tears of joy.Next Sunday, another Blessingway will be offered at my house. I'm looking forward to it.